The new Korean drama Typhoon Family has made a strong entrance with its first two episodes, setting the tone for an emotional and nostalgic story about love, loss, and resilience. Set during the turbulent 1997 IMF crisis, this tvN and Netflix drama captures how one family struggles to stay afloat after tragedy strikes. With powerful performances from Lee Jun-ho and Kim Min-ha, the series immediately draws you in with its sincerity and visual beauty.
Episode 1: The Storm Hits
Typhoon Family opens in 1997, introducing the Kang family, who run the successful company Typhoon Trading. Tae-poong (Lee Jun-ho) is the carefree youngest son, enjoying life without responsibilities. The family appears close-knit, with loving interactions and subtle tensions hinting at different personalities.
Suddenly, Tae-poong’s father unexpectedly passes away, throwing the family into grief and shock. On top of that, the company faces financial instability due to the IMF economic crisis, which threatens their business and livelihood. Tae-poong is forced to confront the harsh realities of life and take responsibility for the family’s future. The episode ends with him overwhelmed but determined, staring at his father’s office, realizing his life has irrevocably changed.
Episode 2: Rising Challenges
In Episode 2, Tae-poong begins learning how to manage the company, guided by Oh Mi-seon (Kim Min-ha), the practical and intelligent accountant. He struggles with creditors, boardroom pressures, and keeping the staff motivated.
Family tensions arise as siblings and relatives deal differently with the crisis, debating company strategies and coping with grief. The IMF crisis heightens external pressure, affecting clients, suppliers, and finances. Despite setbacks, Tae-poong gradually shows signs of maturity, and his bond with Mi-seon strengthens. By the end of the episode, he makes a small but meaningful decision to protect part of the company, hinting at the personal growth and resilience that will define his journey.
Cast and Characters
Lee Jun-ho as Kang Tae-poong — The ambitious yet naive son forced to take charge after his father’s death.
Kim Min-ha as Oh Mi-seon — The loyal and grounded accountant who becomes Tae-poong’s pillar of strength.
Park Sung-woong as Chairman Kang Do-shik — The strict patriarch whose decisions shape the family’s fate.
Lee Se-young as Kang Soo-jin — The strong-willed sister struggling to protect her family.
Kim Kap-soo as Director Han — The long-time advisor of the Kang family company.
Performances & Direction
Lee Jun-ho delivers an impressive performance, showcasing vulnerability and inner strength. His emotional range gives weight to Tae-poong’s transformation from a carefree heir to a determined leader. Kim Min-ha complements him beautifully — calm, intelligent, and quietly powerful.
The direction by Kim Sang-ho keeps the pace tight while emphasizing emotion over spectacle. The muted color palette, period-accurate set design, and stirring background score perfectly recreate the late ‘90s atmosphere.
Why You Should Watch Typhoon Family
1. Authentic 1990s Nostalgia: Every detail, from fashion to business culture, immerses you in the era.
2. Emotional Storytelling: Family, loss, and rebuilding after tragedy are universal themes that hit home.
3. Stellar Performances: Lee Jun-ho and Kim Min-ha’s chemistry is natural and compelling.
4. Strong Writing: The show avoids clichés and focuses on realistic emotional progression.
5. Visually Beautiful: Cinematography and art direction create a cinematic experience rarely seen in family dramas.
Where to Watch
You can stream Typhoon Family exclusively on Netflix with English subtitles. New episodes air every Saturday and Sunday on tvN in South Korea.
Final Takeaway
Typhoon Family begins as a story about loss but quickly transforms into a moving portrait of resilience. With an engaging cast and heartfelt storytelling, it promises to be one of 2025’s standout Korean dramas. Episodes 1 and 2 lay a strong foundation for a series that feels both nostalgic and relevant — reminding us that even in the eye of life’s storm, family is the anchor that keeps us grounded.
Image Credit to X @tvN
